Since our heart pumps blood, oxygen, and hormones into our bodies continuously, it should come as no surprise that this vital organ needs the best care possible to stay in good working order. Many of us follow our daily exercise routines and consume nutrient-rich meals when it comes to heart health precautions, but over time, we run the risk of suffering a heart attack or cardiac arrest. This could be brought on by an underlying medical condition, a family history, or even poor mental health, including anxiety, depression, and unresolved stress.
The following are some ways that yoga can improve heart health:
1. Blood pressure control: One of the main risk factors for heart disease is hypertension, or high blood pressure. Because yoga has a relaxing influence on the nervous system, it has been demonstrated to help lower blood pressure. Stress reduction and improved arterial relaxation are other benefits for maintaining appropriate blood pressure levels.
2. Stress reduction: Prolonged stress can raise blood pressure and heart rate, and it can harm the cardiovascular system over time. Yoga’s focus on relaxation and deep breathing can lower stress chemicals like adrenaline and cortisol, which may minimize the risk of heart disease.
3. Better lipid profile: Consistent yoga practice has been linked to improved lipid profiles, which include higher levels of HDL cholesterol, which is heart disease-preventive, and lower levels of LDL and total cholesterol.
4. Weight control: Yoga can be a useful technique for managing weight, and obesity is a known risk factor for heart disease. While not all yoga techniques are strenuous, many of them can burn calories. Even more gentle yoga types can aid in weight control by lowering stress and enhancing awareness, which may lessen emotional eating.
5. Anti-inflammatory effects: One of the main causes of heart disease is inflammation. Yoga may help the body’s inflammatory processes, which is good for heart health. Yoga has been demonstrated to lower inflammatory markers that are associated with cardiovascular disease, such as C-reactive protein.
6. Enhanced physical fitness: Yoga can enhance physical fitness, including enhanced cardiovascular capacity, strength, flexibility, and balance, while being frequently seen as a low-impact exercise. A lower risk of heart disease can be achieved with increased general fitness.